System for raising and lowering a building

ABSTRACT

A system for raising and lowering a building relative to its foundation. A plurality of permanently-installed lifting apparatuses engage the building or a building support structure and exert an upward force causing the building to be moved vertically relative to the foundation.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to systems for raising and lowering a building.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In various situations it may become desirable to raise an established building off of its foundation (which may for example be a concrete pad, multiple concrete footings, or some other form of base), for example to repair or replace those foundations, to relocate the building or to level the building. Common practice is to elevate the building using jacking mechanisms and position increasing stacks of supporting blocks under strategically determined points on the building underside. It is also known to use beams to support the building as it is being lifted off of its foundations, and the beams are commonly raised by means of jacks, with supporting blocks being positioned under the beams as they are elevated to increased heights in an attempt to prevent a long fall should one or more of the jacks fail.

However, it has been found that traditional building lifting methods are time-consuming and require significant personnel to operate. In addition, the process of raising a building off of its foundation may further provide undesired force to the foundation causing damage. Furthermore, some prior art lifting systems are inherently unstable and thus represent a safety risk for personnel.

In addition, prior art systems are designed for temporary use, normally to allow one-time repair of building foundation damage. It may be desirable in some situations to have a building lifting system that is permanently installed to enable movement of the building upwardly or downwardly relative to its foundation over time. For example, land shifting may result in a building that is no longer level, and in such a case it would be desirable to have a lifting solution that could be used to level the building as shifting occurs over time. In a further example, it may be desirable to elevate a building where flooding is occurring, to prevent damage to the building, and a permanently installed system could be advantageous in such situations.

What is needed, therefore, is a system to vertically move an established building in a manner where undesired force is reduced or mitigated.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention seeks to provide a system to vertically move an established building relative to a foundation.

According to a first broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for raising and lowering a building relative to its foundation, the foundation comprising a foundation wall, the system comprising:

-   -   a plurality of lifting apparatuses each comprising an extensible         member, each lifting apparatuses mounted on a surface of the         foundation wall and the extensible member moveable between a         retracted orientation and an extended orientation and configured         to abut a portion of the building;     -   such that when the extensible members are moved from the         retracted orientation to the extended orientation, each of the         extensible members exert an upward force on the building causing         the building to be lifted vertically relative to the foundation.

The surface according to the first broad aspect of the present invention may be an inner surface or an outer surface of the foundation wall. In some exemplary embodiments of the first aspect, the surface comprises inner and outer surfaces and each lifting apparatus comprises inner and outer lifting members, the inner lifting member mounted on the inner surface and the outer lifting member mounted on the outer surface, the inner and outer lifting members connected by a connection member passing through the foundation wall such that the inner and outer lifting members operate in tandem.

The system according to the first broad aspect of the present invention may further comprise at least one support beam positionable between the building and the extensible members.

In some exemplary embodiments of the first aspect, the plurality of lifting apparatuses may be electronically operable or manually operable.

The plurality of lifting apparatuses may be positioned at evenly spaced points around the foundation wall.

Optionally, the extensible members are extensible to a plurality of heights relative to the foundation wall.

According to a second broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for leveling a building, the building supported by a support structure, the building overlying a foundation, the system comprising:

-   -   a plurality of lifting apparatuses extending upwardly from the         foundation to the support structure, each of the lifting         apparatuses contacting the support structure at one of a         plurality of contact points; and     -   each of the lifting apparatuses independently operable to extend         from a retracted orientation to one of a plurality of extended         orientations;     -   such that when each of the lifting apparatuses are moved from         the retracted orientation to one of the extended orientations,         the lifting apparatuses exert an upward force on the support         structure at the contact points causing the building to be         lifted vertically relative to the foundation.

In some exemplary embodiments of the second aspect, the support structure comprises at least two supported members, each of the supported members being supported by at least two of the lifting apparatuses. Where such is the case, each lifting apparatus may comprise first and second lifting members, the first and second lifting members supporting a vertically moveable yoke member configured to receive and support the supported member, the first and second lifting members connected by a connection member such that the first and second lifting members operate in tandem.

The foundation may comprise reinforced concrete pads.

The plurality of lifting apparatuses may be electronically operable or manually operable. Optionally, where electronically operable, the plurality of lifting apparatuses may be operable by remote control.

In some exemplary embodiments of the second aspect, the plurality of lifting apparatuses are automatically operable by sensor means such that the building is automatically leveled. Optionally, the sensor means are located on the support structure.

According to a third broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for raising and lowering a building, the building overlying a foundation and supported by a foundation grade beam, the system comprising:

-   -   a plurality of lifting apparatuses mounted on a surface of the         foundation grade beam, each lifting apparatus comprising a         downwardly extensible member configured to contact the         foundation; and     -   the extensible members moveable between retracted and extended         positions;     -   such that when the extensible members move from the retracted         position to the extended position, the plurality of lifting         apparatuses exert an upward force on the foundation grade beam         causing the building to be displaced away from the foundation.

In some exemplary embodiments of the third aspect, the surface comprises inner and outer surfaces and each lifting apparatus comprises inner and outer lifting members, the inner lifting member mounted on the inner surface and the outer lifting member mounted on the outer surface, the inner and outer lifting members connected by a connection member such that the inner and outer lifting members operate in tandem.

The foundation may comprise at least one reinforced concrete pad or at least one reinforced concrete footing.

The plurality of lifting apparatuses may be electronically operable or manually operable. Each of the plurality of lifting apparatuses may be positioned at evenly spaced points around the foundation grade beam.

Preferably, the extensible members are extensible to move the foundation grade beam to a plurality of heights relative to the foundation.

According to a fourth broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for raising and lowering a building, the building overlying a foundation, the foundation comprising a foundation wall and a foundation floor, the system comprising:

-   -   a plurality of lifting apparatuses each comprising a downwardly         extensible member, each lifting apparatuses mounted on a surface         of the foundation wall and the extensible member moveable         between a retracted orientation and an extended orientation and         configured to abut the foundation floor;     -   such that when the extensible members are moved from the         retracted orientation to the extended orientation, each of the         extensible members exert an upward force on the foundation wall         causing the building and the foundation wall to be lifted         vertically relative to the foundation floor displacing the         foundation wall from the foundation floor.

In some exemplary embodiments of the fourth aspect, the surface comprises inner and outer surfaces and each lifting apparatus comprises inner and outer lifting members, the inner lifting member mounted on the inner surface and the outer lifting member mounted on the outer surface, the inner and outer lifting members connected by a connection member such that the inner and outer lifting members operate in tandem.

The foundation may comprise at least one reinforced concrete pad or at least one reinforced concrete footing.

The plurality of lifting apparatuses may be electronically operable or manually operable.

Each of the plurality of lifting apparatuses may be positioned at evenly spaced points around the foundation wall.

Preferably, the extensible members are extensible to move the foundation wall to a plurality of heights relative to the foundation floor.

According to a fifth broad aspect of the present invention, system for raising or lowering a building, the building comprising a peripheral building wall and overlying a foundation, the system comprising:

-   -   a plurality of lifting apparatuses moveable between retracted         and extended orientations, each of the lifting apparatuses         partially within the peripheral building wall and engaging the         foundation;     -   such that operating the lifting apparatuses causes the building         to move vertically relative to the foundation.

In some exemplary embodiments of the fifth aspect, a base of the building is normally at grade level with the lifting apparatuses in the retracted orientation, such that operating the lifting apparatuses to extend the lifting apparatuses causes the base of the building to be raised above the grade level. In some embodiments, the plurality of lifting apparatuses are provided with sensor means and are automatically operable by the sensor means such that the base of the building is automatically raised above the grade level upon sensing a flood event.

In some exemplary embodiments of the fifth aspect, a base of the building is normally at grade level with the lifting apparatuses in the extended orientation, such that operating the lifting apparatuses to retract the lifting apparatuses causes the base of the building to be lowered below the grade level. Optionally, the foundation may then comprise a below grade entrance that allows egress when the building is lowered below the grade level. In some embodiments, the plurality of lifting apparatuses are provided with sensor means and automatically operable by the sensor means such that the base of the building is automatically lowered below the grade level upon sensing a high wind event, such as for example tornado-level winds. The foundation may optionally comprise a foundation wall, such that when the base of the building is lowered below the grade level, the building is lowered to be at least partially contained within the foundation wall.

The plurality of lifting apparatuses may be positioned within corners of the peripheral building wall.

The foundation may comprise at least one reinforced concrete pad or at least one reinforced concrete footing.

The plurality of lifting apparatuses may be electronically operable or manually operable.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the accompanying drawings, which illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present invention:

FIG. 1a is a front view of a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state wherein some of the foundation walls are transparent;

FIG. 1b is a perspective view of the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state wherein some of the foundation walls are transparent;

FIG. 2a is a front view of the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state wherein some of the foundation walls are transparent;

FIG. 2b is a perspective view of the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state wherein some of the foundation walls are transparent;

FIG. 3a is a detailed side view of the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state with a segment of foundation removed;

FIG. 3b is a detailed front view of the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state;

FIG. 3c is a detailed isometric view of the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state;

FIG. 3d is a detailed isometric view of the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state;

FIG. 4a is a detailed side view of the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state;

FIG. 4b is a detailed front view of the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state;

FIG. 4c is a detailed isometric view of the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state with a segment of foundation removed;

FIG. 4d is a detailed isometric view of the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state;

FIG. 5a is a front view of a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state wherein some of the foundation walls are transparent;

FIG. 5b is a side view of the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state wherein some of the foundation walls are transparent;

FIG. 6a is a front view of the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state wherein some of the foundation walls are transparent;

FIG. 6b is a side view of the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state wherein some of the foundation walls are transparent;

FIG. 7a is a detailed side view of the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state;

FIG. 7b is a detailed front view of the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state;

FIG. 7c is a detailed isometric view of the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state with a segment of foundation removed;

FIG. 7d is a detailed isometric view of the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state;

FIG. 8a is a detailed front view of the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state;

FIG. 8b is a detailed side view of the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state;

FIG. 8c is a detailed isometric view of the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state with a segment of foundation removed;

FIG. 8d is a detailed isometric view of the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state;

FIG. 9a is a front view of a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state wherein some of the foundation walls are transparent;

FIG. 9b is a side view of the third exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state wherein some of the foundation walls are transparent;

FIG. 10a is a front view of the third exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state wherein some of the foundation walls are transparent;

FIG. 10b is a side view of the third exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state wherein some of the foundation walls are transparent;

FIG. 11a is a detailed side view of the third exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state;

FIG. 11b is a detailed front view of the third exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state;

FIG. 11c is a detailed isometric view of the third exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state;

FIG. 11d is a detailed isometric view of the third exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state;

FIG. 12a is a detailed side view of the third exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state;

FIG. 12b is a detailed front view of the third exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state;

FIG. 12c is a detailed isometric view of the third exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state;

FIG. 12d is a detailed isometric view of the third exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state;

FIG. 13a is a perspective view of a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13b is a perspective view of the fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13c is a perspective of the fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14a is a front view of the fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14b is a front view of the fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14c is a side view of the fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14d is a top view of the fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16a is a front view of a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state wherein the shrouds are not shown;

FIG. 16b is a side view of the fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state wherein the shrouds are not shown;

FIG. 16c is a perspective view of the fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention wherein the shrouds are not shown;

FIG. 16d is a perspective view of the fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 17a is a detailed front view of the fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state wherein the shrouds are not shown;

FIG. 17b is a detailed side view of the fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state wherein the shrouds are not shown;

FIG. 18a is a detailed front view of the fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state;

FIG. 18b is a detailed side view of the fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state;

FIG. 18c is a detailed isometric view of the fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention wherein the foundation corner is removed in a retracted state;

FIG. 19a is a detailed front view of the fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state;

FIG. 19b is a detailed side view of the fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state;

FIG. 19c is a detailed isometric view of the fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state wherein the foundation corner is removed;

FIG. 20a is a detailed isometric view of the fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state;

FIG. 20b is a detailed isometric view of the fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state;

FIG. 21a is a front view of a sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state wherein the protective shrouds are omitted;

FIG. 21b is a side view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state wherein the protective shrouds are omitted;

FIG. 22a is a front view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state wherein the protective shrouds are omitted;

FIG. 22b is a side view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state wherein the protective shrouds are omitted;

FIG. 23a is a detailed front view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state;

FIG. 23b is a detailed side view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state;

FIG. 23c is a detailed isometric view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state wherein the foundation corner is removed;

FIG. 24a is a detailed front of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state;

FIG. 24b is a detailed side view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state;

FIG. 24c is a detailed isometric view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state wherein the foundation corner is removed;

FIG. 25a is a detailed front view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 25b is a detailed isometric view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 26 is an isometric view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 27a is an perspective view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 27b is an perspective view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention wherein the foundation wall is partially underground;

FIG. 28a is a perspective view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention wherein the shroud tops are removed;

FIG. 28b is a perspective view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention wherein the shroud tops are removed wherein the foundation wall is partially underground;

FIG. 29a is a perspective view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state wherein the jack handles are present;

FIG. 29b is a perspective view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state wherein the jack handles are present and the foundation wall is partially underground;

FIG. 30a is a front perspective view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state wherein the jack handles are present;

FIG. 30b is a perspective view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state wherein the jack handles are present and the foundation wall is partially underground;

FIG. 31a is a perspective view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state wherein the jack handles and shroud tops are removed;

FIG. 31b is a perspective view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state wherein the jack handles and shroud tops are removed and the foundation wall is partially underground;

FIG. 32a is a perspective view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state;

FIG. 32b is a perspective view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state and the foundation wall is partially underground;

FIG. 33a is a perspective view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a retracted state;

FIG. 33b is a perspective view of the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in an extended state;

FIG. 34a is a front view of a seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position;

FIG. 34b is a side view of a seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position;

FIG. 35a is a front view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a mid-position;

FIG. 35b is a side view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a mid-position;

FIG. 36a is a front view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a raised position;

FIG. 36b is a side view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a raised position;

FIG. 37a is a detailed exterior corner isometric view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position;

FIG. 37b is a detailed exterior corner isometric view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a mid-position;

FIG. 37c is a detailed exterior corner isometric view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a raised position;

FIG. 38a is a detailed interior corner isometric view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position;

FIG. 38b is a detailed interior corner isometric view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a mid-position;

FIG. 38c is a detailed interior corner isometric view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a raised position;

FIG. 39a is a detailed front view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position;

FIG. 39b is a detailed front view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a mid-position;

FIG. 39c is a detailed front of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a raised position;

FIG. 40a is a detailed side view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position;

FIG. 40a is a detailed side view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a mid-position;

FIG. 40c is a detailed side of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a raised position;

FIG. 41a is a detailed top view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 41b is a detailed bottom view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 42a is a detailed front view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 42b is a detailed side view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 43a is a detailed front view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention wherein the gear box is transparent;

FIG. 43b is a detailed side view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention wherein the drive housing is transparent;

FIG. 44a is a detailed top view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention wherein the drive housing is transparent;

FIG. 44b is a detailed side view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention wherein the drive housing and the gear box are transparent;

FIG. 44c is a wherein the gear box is transparent front view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention wherein the gear box is transparent;

FIG. 45a is an exterior corner isometric view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position;

FIG. 45b is an exterior corner isometric view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a mid-position;

FIG. 45c is an exterior corner isometric view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a raised position;

FIG. 46a is an exterior corner isometric view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position;

FIG. 46b is an exterior corner isometric view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a mid-position;

FIG. 46c is an exterior corner isometric view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a raised position;

FIG. 47a is an exterior corner isometric view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position;

FIG. 47b is an exterior corner isometric view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a mid-position;

FIG. 47c is an exterior corner isometric view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a raised position;

FIG. 48 is an isometric view of the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 49a is a front view of an eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a raised position;

FIG. 49b is a side view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a raised position;

FIG. 50a is a front view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a mid-position;

FIG. 50b is a side view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a mid-position;

FIG. 51a is a front view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position;

FIG. 51b is a side view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position;

FIG. 52a is an isometric view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a raised position;

FIG. 52b is an isometric view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a mid-position;

FIG. 52c is an isometric view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position;

FIG. 53a is an isometric view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a raised position wherein the foundation wall is partially below grade level;

FIG. 53b is an isometric view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a mid-position the foundation wall is partially below grade level;

FIG. 53c is an isometric view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position the foundation wall is partially below grade level;

FIG. 54a is an isometric view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a raised position wherein some of the foundation walls are transparent;

FIG. 54b is an isometric view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a mid-position wherein some of the foundation walls are transparent;

FIG. 54c is an isometric view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position wherein some of the foundation walls are transparent;

FIG. 55a is an isometric view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a raised position wherein some of the foundation walls and the roof are transparent;

FIG. 55b is an isometric view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a mid-position wherein some of the foundation walls and the roof are transparent;

FIG. 55c is an isometric view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position wherein some of the foundation walls and the roof are transparent;

FIG. 56a is an isometric view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a raised position wherein some of the foundation walls and building are removed;

FIG. 56b is an isometric view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a mid-position wherein some of the foundation walls and building are removed;

FIG. 56c is an isometric view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position wherein some of the foundation walls are removed;

FIG. 57a is a side view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a raised position wherein some of the foundation walls are transparent;

FIG. 57b is a side view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a mid-position wherein some of the foundation walls are transparent;

FIG. 57c is a side view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position wherein some of the foundation walls are transparent;

FIG. 58a is a side view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a raised position wherein some of the foundation walls are transparent and building is removed;

FIG. 58b is a side view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a mid-position wherein some of the foundation walls are transparent and building is removed; and

FIG. 58c is a side view of the eighth exemplary embodiment of the present invention in a lowered position wherein some of the foundation walls are transparent and building is removed.

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Throughout the following description specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding to persons skilled in the art. However, well known elements may not have been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the disclosure. The following description of examples of the technology is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form of any exemplary embodiment. Accordingly, the description and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative, rather than a restrictive, sense.

Referring now to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of a system according to the present invention are illustrated. It is to be understood that the illustrated embodiments are exemplary only and other embodiments may properly fall within the scope of the claims.

The present invention is directed to systems for raising and lowering a building. A plurality of lifting apparatuses engage the building or a building support structure and exert an upward force causing the building to be moved vertically relative to the foundation.

First, second and third embodiments of the present invention are directed to systems for raising and lowering a building relative to its foundation. In particular, the exemplary embodiments involve raising and lowering a building relative to its foundation walls thus causing a gap between the building and foundation wall when the building is raised.

A first exemplary embodiment involves a system for raising and lowering a building relative to its foundation. The system comprises a plurality of lifting apparatuses, each comprising an extensible member. Each lifting apparatuses is mounted on an inner surface of the foundation wall and the extensible member is moveable between a retracted orientation and an extended orientation and configured to abut a portion of the building. When the extensible members are moved from the retracted orientation to the extended orientation, each of the extensible members exert an upward force on the building causing the building to be lifted vertically relative to the foundation.

Turning to FIGS. 1a to 2b , the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. FIGS. 1a and 1b show a building 102 resting on top of a foundation 104, the retracted state for the lifting jacks 112, while FIGS. 2a and 2b show the building 102 raised relative to the foundation 104, which is the extended state.

FIGS. 3a to 4d show detailed views of mounted lifting apparatuses, comprising lifting jacks 112. An example of lifting apparatuses that can be used include jacks from the Holland Mark V Landing Gear series. A person skilled in the art would know of other lifting apparatuses suitable for application to embodiments of the present invention.

Lifting jacks 112 are anchored via wall jack fasteners 126 into the internal face of the reinforced concrete foundation wall 106 at evenly spaced intervals around the foundation wall 106. The wall jack fasteners 126 pass through the foundation wall 106 and engage with a mounting plate 128 on the other side of the foundation wall 106. The reinforced concrete foundation wall 106 typically rests on, and is integrated with, a concrete footing 120. Footings 120 may rest on or be integrated with the foundation floor 108. The jacks 112 are oriented such that when the jack 112 is extended, the leg and foot of the jack 112 move upward. When the jack 112 is retracted, the leg and foot of the jack move downward. A steel support beam 124 is positioned on top of the jack feet such that, when the jack 112 is extended the beam 124 is raised, and when the jack 112 is retracted the beam 124 is lowered. A wood plate 116 is attached to the upper face of the steel support beam 124 and is fastened to the floor deck structure 122 of the building 102.

FIGS. 3a to 3d show the exemplary embodiment in a retracted state, while FIGS. 4a to 4d show the exemplary embodiment in an extended state wherein the building 102 is raised relative to the foundation 104, in particular the foundation wall 106 and footing 120.

In manual operation, a user would engage the handles 130 of the lifting jacks 112 to either raise or lower the building 102. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that electronic operation could be enabled using technology known in the art.

A second exemplary embodiment involves a system for raising and lowering a building relative to its foundation. The system comprises a plurality of lifting apparatuses, each comprising an extensible member. In this embodiment, and unlike the first embodiment, each lifting apparatuses is mounted on an outer surface of the foundation wall and the extensible member is moveable between a retracted orientation and an extended orientation and configured to abut a portion of the building. When the extensible members are moved from the retracted orientation to the extended orientation, each of the extensible members exert an upward force on the building causing the building to be lifted vertically relative to the foundation.

Turning to FIGS. 5a to 6b , the second exemplary embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. FIGS. 5a and 5b show a building 202 resting on top of a foundation 204, the retracted state for the lifting jacks 212, while FIGS. 6a and 6b show building 202 raised relative to the foundation 204, which is the extended state.

FIGS. 7a to 8d show detailed views of mounted lifting apparatuses, comprising lifting jacks 212. An example of lifting apparatuses that can be used include jacks from the Holland Mark V Landing Gear series. A person skilled in the art would know of other lifting apparatuses suitable for application to embodiments of the present invention.

Lifting jacks 212 are anchored via wall jack fasteners 226 into the outer face of the reinforced concrete foundation wall 206 at evenly spaced intervals around the foundation wall 206. The wall jack fasteners 226 pass through the foundation wall 206 and engage with a mounting plate 228 on the other side of the foundation wall 206. The reinforced concrete foundation wall 206 typically rests on, and is integrated with, a concrete footing 220. Footings 220 may rest on or be integrated with the foundation floor 208. The lifting jacks 212 are oriented such that when the jack 212 is extended, the leg and foot of the jack 212 move upward. When the jack 212 is retracted, the leg and foot of the jack move downward. A modified steel support beam 224 is positioned on top of the jack feet such that, when the jack 212 is extended the beam 224 is raised, and when the jack 212 is retracted the beam 224 is lowered. A wood plate 216 is attached to the upper face of the steel support beam 224 and is fastened to the floor deck structure 222 of the building 202. The support beam 224 is modified when compared to the support beam 124 in the first embodiment such that, one side of the top flange is removed in order that the web of the beam abuts the exterior face of the floor deck when the bottom flange is inserted beneath the floor deck.

FIGS. 7a to 7d show the exemplary embodiment in a retracted state, while FIGS. 8a to 8d show the exemplary embodiment in a state wherein the building 202 is raised relative to the foundation 204, in particular the foundation wall 206 and footing 220.

In manual operation, a user would engage the handles 230 of the lifting jacks 212 to either raise or lower the building 202. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that electronic operation could be enabled using technology known in the art.

A third exemplary embodiment involves a system for raising and lowering a building relative to its foundation. The system comprises a plurality of lifting apparatuses, each comprising an extensible member. Each lifting apparatuses is mounted on a surface of the foundation wall and the extensible member is moveable between a retracted orientation and an extended orientation and configured to abut a portion of the building. Furthermore, each lifting apparatus comprises inner and outer lifting members. The inner lifting members are mounted on the inner surface of the foundation wall and the outer lifting members are mounted on the outer surface of the foundation wall. The inner and outer lifting members are connected by a connection member passing through the foundation wall such that the inner and outer lifting members operate in tandem. When the extensible members are moved from the retracted orientation to the extended orientation, each of the extensible members exert an upward force on the building causing the building to be lifted vertically relative to the foundation.

Turning to FIGS. 9a to 10b , the third exemplary embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. FIGS. 9a and 9b show a building 302 resting on top of a foundation 304, the retracted state for the lifting jacks 312, 314, while FIGS. 10a and 10b show the building 302 is raised relative to the foundation 304.

FIGS. 11a to 12d show detailed views of mounted lifting apparatuses, comprising inner lifting jacks 312 and outer lifting jacks 314. An example of lifting apparatuses that can be used include jacks from the Holland Mark V Landing Gear series. A person skilled in the art would know of other lifting apparatuses suitable for application to embodiments of the present invention.

Lifting jacks 312, 314 are anchored, via mounting anchors 328, into both the internal and external faces of the concrete foundation wall 306 at evenly spaced intervals around the foundation wall 306. An inner lifting jack 312 and outer lifting jack 314 form a jack pair, wherein the jacks 312, 314 of each pair are connected by a common drive shaft 322 that runs through the foundation wall 306 such that the jacks 312, 314 function in tandem The reinforced concrete foundation wall 306 typically rests on, and is integrated with, a concrete footing 326. Footings 326 may rest on or be integrated with the foundation floor 308. The jacks are oriented such that the leg 330, 332 and feet of the jacks move upwardly when the jacks 312, 314 are extended and downwardly when the jacks 312, 314 are retracted. Preferably, the jack legs 330, 332 are bridged by a section of Hollow Structural Steel (HSS) 320 that functions as the surface upon which the floor joists are supported and connected. There may be a beam pocket 318 between lifting jacks 312, 314 and the bridging section 320. The purpose of the beam pocket 318 is to accommodate the volume of the HSS bridge section 320 when the lifting jacks 312, 314 are in the retracted position. When the jacks are extended, the structure 316 is raised, and when the jacks are retracted the structure 316 is lowered.

FIGS. 11a to 11d show the exemplary embodiment in a retracted state, while FIGS. 12a to 12d show the exemplary embodiment in an extended state wherein the building 302 is raised relative to the foundation 304, in particular the foundation wall 306 and footing 326.

In manual operation, a user would engage the handle 334 of lifting jacks 312, 314 to either raise or lower the building 302. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that electronic operation could be enabled using technology known in the art. Optionally, where electronically operable, the plurality of lifting apparatuses may be operable by remote control.

A fourth embodiment of the present invention is directed to a system for levelling a building that overlies a foundation.

The fourth exemplary embodiment involves a permanently-installed system for leveling a building that is supported by a support structure and overlies a foundation. The system comprising a plurality of lifting apparatuses extending upwardly from the foundation to the support structure. Each of the lifting apparatuses contact the support structure at one of a plurality of contact points and are independently operable to extend from a retracted orientation to one of a plurality of extended orientations. When each of the lifting apparatuses are moved from the retracted orientation to one of the extended orientations, the lifting apparatuses exert an upward force on the support structure at the contact points causing the building to be lifted vertically relative to the foundation. As each lifting apparatus is independently operable, the result is that the base of the building can be shifted in three dimensions to level the building.

Preferably, each lifting apparatus of the exemplary embodiment comprises first and second lifting members. The first and second lifting members support a vertically moveable yoke member configured to receive and support the supported member. The first and second lifting members are connected by a connection member such that the first and second lifting members operate in tandem.

Turning to FIGS. 13a to 15, the fourth embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. FIG. 13a shows the floor deck framing 402 of the building, while in the other figures the floor deck framing 402 has been removed or partially cut away to reveal support structure and lifting apparatuses.

FIGS. 14a to 15 show detailed views of anchored lifting apparatuses, where the lifting apparatuses are leveling jacks 418. A person skilled in the art would know of other lifting apparatuses suitable for application to embodiments of the present invention. The electronically controlled leveling jacks 418 are anchored into reinforced concrete pads 404 in pairs. Each pair of leveling jacks 418 is connected by a common drive shaft that is driven by an electric motor 412 and function in tandem. Preferably, each pair of jack legs 418 is joined by a section of Hollow Structural Steel (HSS) that functions as a yoke/saddle 410 for the primary steel lifting beams 406. The primary 406 and secondary 408 lifting beams support the floor deck frame 402 of the structure. When the jacks 418 are extended, the structure is raised, and when the jacks 418 are retracted the structure is lowered. Each pair of jacks 418 can operate independently from the others. Different jack pairs may be raised and lowered to different extents depending what is required to level the floor deck structure. Electronic level sensors 414 are mounted on each lifting beam 406, 408. The level sensors 414 send data to the control unit 420. The control unit 420 processes the data received from the sensors 414 and determines the extent and direction each jack pair 418 will move. The control unit 420 then engages the electric drives 412 on each pair of leveling jacks 418 to cause upward or downward movement in order to level the floor deck structure. A person skilled in the art would know of level sensors and control units suitable for application to embodiments of the present invention.

In operation, when the level sensors 414 sense that the floor deck is not level, they send data to the control unit 420 that indicates this. The control unit 420 then automatically engages the electric motors 412 on each pair of leveling jacks 418 to cause upward or downward movement (based on data sent to the control unit 420) in order to level the floor deck.

Optionally, the electronically controlled leveling jacks 418 are operable by remote control.

It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that manually operable lifting apparatuses suitable for application to embodiments of the present could be enabled using technology known in the art.

For example, a user may engage the handle of lifting jacks such that the floor deck of the building becomes level.

A fifth embodiment of the present invention is directed to a system for raising and lowering a building relative to its foundation. In particular, the exemplary embodiment involves raising and lowering a building and its foundation grade beam relative to its foundation thus causing a gap between the foundation grade beam and foundation floor when the building and foundation grade beam are raised.

The fifth exemplary embodiment involves a system for raising and lowering a building. The building overlies a foundation and is supported by a foundation grade beam. The system comprises a plurality of lifting apparatuses mounted on a surface of the foundation grade beam. Each lifting apparatus comprises a downwardly extensible member configured to contact the foundation and the extensible members are moveable between retracted and extended positions. When the extensible members move from the retracted position to the extended position, the plurality of lifting apparatuses exert an upward force on the foundation grade beam causing the building to be displaced away from the foundation.

Each lifting apparatus of the exemplary embodiment comprises inner and outer lifting members. The inner lifting members are mounted on the inner surface of the foundation grade beam and the outer lifting members are mounted on the outer surface of the foundation grade beam. The inner and outer lifting members are connected by a connection member such that the inner and outer lifting members operate in tandem.

Turning to FIGS. 16a to 17b , the fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. FIG. 16a and show a building 502 resting on top of a foundation 504, the retracted state for the lifting jacks 516, 518, while FIGS. 17a and 17b show the building 502 raised relative to the foundation 504, which is the extended state.

FIGS. 18a to 20b show detailed views of mounted lifting apparatuses, comprising lifting jacks 516, 518. A person skilled in the art would know of other lifting apparatuses suitable for application to embodiments of the present invention.

Internal and external wall lifting jacks 516, 518 are anchored, via wall jack fasteners 524, into both the internal and external faces of the concrete foundation grade beam 522 at evenly spaced intervals around the grade beam 522. The wall lifting jacks 516, 518 and concrete foundation grade beam 522 may be under the primary support beam(s) (not shown) or the floor deck framing 520. The jack pairs 516, 518 are connected by a common drive shaft 528 such that the jacks function in tandem. The jacks 516, 518 are oriented such that the leg 514 and foot 536 of each of the jacks 516, 518 move downwardly when the jacks 516, 518 are extended and upwardly when the jacks 516, 518 are retracted. The foot 536 of each jack leg 514 lands on the top of the foundation footing 526. When the lifting jack legs 514 are extended, the foundation grade beam 522 is raised and lifted off of the footing 526. Since the building 502 is supported by the foundation grade beam 522, it is also raised relative to the footing 526. In some embodiments of the present invention, the foundation grade beam 522 and the wall lifting jacks 516, 518 may be partially below the back soil grade line 532 (see FIG. 16c ). In these embodiments, protective shrouds 534 (see FIG. 16d ) cover each external wall lifting jack 518 to ensure backfill material does not foul its mechanism.

FIGS. 18a to 18c and 20a show the exemplary embodiment in a retracted state, while FIGS. 19a to 19c and 20b show the exemplary embodiment in a state wherein the building 502 and foundation grade beam 522 are raised relative to the foundation 504, in particular the footing 526.

In manual operation, a user would engage the handles 538 of lifting jacks 516, 518 to either raise or lower the building 502 and foundation grade beam 522. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that electronic operation could be enabled using technology known in the art.

A sixth embodiment of the present invention is directed to a system for raising and lowering a building relative to its foundation. In particular, the exemplary embodiment involves raising and lowering a building and its foundation wall relative to its foundation thus causing a gap between the foundation wall and foundation floor when the building and foundation wall are raised.

The sixth exemplary embodiment involves a system for raising and lowering a building which overlies a foundation. The foundation comprises a foundation wall and a foundation floor. The system comprises a plurality of lifting apparatuses mounted on a surface of the foundation wall. Each lifting apparatus comprises a downwardly extensible member and the extensible members are moveable between a retracted orientation and an extended orientation. The extensible members are configured to abut the foundation floor. When the extensible members are moved from the retracted orientation to the extended orientation, each of the extensible members exert an upward force on the foundation wall causing the building and the foundation wall to be lifted vertically relative to the foundation floor displacing the foundation wall from the foundation floor.

Each lifting apparatus of the exemplary embodiment comprises inner and outer lifting members. The inner lifting members are mounted on the inner surface of the foundation wall and the outer lifting members are mounted on the outer surface of the foundation wall. The inner and outer lifting members are connected by a connection member such that the inner and outer lifting members operate in tandem.

Turning to FIGS. 21a to 22b and 27a to 33b , the sixth exemplary embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. FIGS. 21a, 21b, 27a, 28a, 29a and 33a show a building 602 resting on top of a foundation 604, the retracted state for the lifting jacks 616, 618, while FIGS. 22a, 22b 30a, 31a, 32a and 33b show the building 602 raised relative to the foundation 604, which is the extended state.

FIGS. 23a to 26 show detailed views of mounted lifting apparatuses, comprising lifting jacks 616, 618. A person skilled in the art would know of other lifting apparatuses suitable for application to embodiments of the present invention.

Internal and external wall lifting jacks 616, 618 are anchored at the top of the concrete wall 606, via wall fasteners 628, into both the internal and external faces of the concrete foundation wall 606 at evenly spaced intervals around the foundation wall 606. The wall lifting jacks 616, 618 and concrete foundation wall 606 may be under a primary support beam (not shown) or the floor deck framing 624. The jack pairs 616, 618 are connected by a common drive shaft 528 such that the jacks function in tandem. The jacks 616, 618 are oriented such that the leg 614 and foot 644 of the jacks 616, 618 move downward when the jacks 616, 618 are extended and upward when the jacks 616, 618 are retracted. A jack leg extension 620 is connected to each jack leg 614. The feet 646 of the jack leg extensions 620 land on the top of a foundation footing 630. Each jack leg extension 620 is horizontally stabilized by a jack leg extension guide 622 which is welded to a leg guide connection plate 642 and further anchored to the foundation wall 606 via wall fasteners 628. The leg guide connection plate 642 extends downward from the body of the lifting jack 616, 618 along the surface of the foundation wall 606.

When the lifting jack legs 614 are extended, the foundation wall 606 is raised and lifted off of the footing 630. Since the building 602 is supported by the foundation wall 606 it is also raised relative to the footing 630.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the foundation wall 606 and the wall lifting jacks 616, 618 may partially be below the back soil grade line 636 (see FIG. 26). In these embodiments, protective shrouds 638 cover each external wall lifting jack 618 to ensure backfill material does not foul its mechanism (see FIG. 26). As shown in FIGS. 27a to 33b , removal of the shroud covers tops 640 provides access to external wall lifting jacks 618. Upon removal of the shroud covers tops 640, a user can attach a handle 648 to the external wall lifting jacks 618 so they can be used.

FIGS. 23a to 23c show the exemplary embodiment in a retracted state, while FIGS. 24a to 24c show the exemplary embodiment in a state wherein the building 602 and foundation wall 606 are raised relative to the footing 630.

In manual operation, a user would engage the handle 648 of lifting jacks 616, 618 to either raise or lower the building 602 and foundation wall 606. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that electronic operation could be enabled using technology known in the art.

A seventh embodiment of the present invention is directed to a system for raising and lowering a building relative to its foundation. In particular, the exemplary embodiment involves raising a building base from its normal position at grade level, thus causing the building base to be higher than grade level. This may be useful, for example, upon occurrence of a flood event.

The seventh exemplary embodiment involves a system for raising or lowering a building. The building comprises a peripheral building wall and overlies a foundation. The system also comprises a plurality of lifting apparatuses moveable between retracted and extended orientations. Each of the lifting apparatuses is partially within the peripheral building wall and engages the foundation. Operating the lifting apparatuses causes the building to move vertically relative to the foundation. The base of the building is normally at grade level when the lifting apparatuses are in the retracted orientation. When operating the lifting apparatuses to extend the lifting apparatuses, the base of the building is raised above grade level.

Turning to FIGS. 34a to 36b and 45a to 48, the seventh exemplary embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. FIGS. 34a and 34b show a building 702 resting on top of a foundation 703, the retracted state for the lifting jacks 712, while FIGS. 35a and 35b show the building 702 partially raised relative to the foundation 703, which is the mid-extended state, and FIGS. 36a and 36b show the building 702 raised relative to the foundation 703, which is the fully extended state.

FIGS. 37a to 44c show detailed views of mounted lifting apparatuses, comprising lifting jacks 712. A person skilled in the art would know of other lifting apparatuses suitable for application to embodiments of the present invention.

This system can be used to raise a building 702 in response to a flood event and lower the building 702 after the flood has ended. Permanently Installed House Lifting (PIHL) jacks 712 are positioned at the corners of the structure and connected to lifting beams 726, 727 that support the floor deck (and its frame 744) of the building 702. Angle braces 728 are used to stabilize the connection between the jack 712 with the beams 726, 727. Angle braces 728 attach to the beams 726, 727 via beam attachment plates 732, 738. Each PIHL jack 712 travels vertically along a support leg 714. The foot 716 of each leg 714 rests on a reinforced concrete foundation pad 742. A pair of threaded actuators 720 extend upwardly from each jack 712 into the wall of the building 702.

The PIHL jacks 712 are actuated by an electric motor drive system housed in the pair of modified steel beams 727 which are connected to the structural support lifting beams 726. The electric motor drive system comprises a drive housing 722 that holds a drive motor 736 and drive shaft 734 extending from it. The motor drive shaft 734 engages a threaded actuator drive shaft 730 which engages with a gear box 724. The gear box 724 is situated adjacent to the top portion of the jack 712 as it engages with the threaded actuators 720. In particular, the drive shaft 734 and the pair of threaded actuator drive shafts 730 are connected by a pair of drive chains which ride on sprockets attached to each drive shaft such that the threaded actuators 720 function in sync. A crown gear is mounted on the gearbox end of the threaded actuator drive shaft 730. A corresponding crown gear is mounted on the lower end of the threaded actuator 720 and engages the gear on the actuator drive shaft 730. The upper actuator nut mount 718 transmits the rotational energy of the threaded actuator 720 to the move the jack 712 and supported structure vertically relative to the support leg 714. This arrangement transfers the horizontal rotational energy of the drive motor 736 to a vertical rotational energy that drives the threaded actuators 720.

When the PIHL jacks 712 are actuated, the jacks 712 travels vertically along the support leg 714 resulting in the support beams 726, 727 and building 702 moving vertically relative to the reinforced concrete foundation pads 742.

The actuation of the PIHL jack motors 736 is synchronized by a central electronic system. A person skilled in the art would know of commercially available central electronic systems suitable for application to embodiments of the present invention. The system is installed such that the PIHL jacks 712 are located within framed wall pockets 740 inside the external wall frame of the structure 702 (see FIG. 45b ).

FIGS. 37a, 38a, 39a and 40a show the exemplary embodiment in a retracted state, while FIGS. 37b, 38b, 39b and 40b show the exemplary embodiment in a state wherein the building 702 is partially raised relative to the foundation 703, in particular the footing 742, and FIGS. 37c, 38c, 39c and 40c show the exemplary embodiment in a state wherein the building 702 is fully raised relative to the foundation 703, in particular the footing 742.

In operation, when the sensors sense a flood event or lack thereof, they send data to the central electronic system 746 that indicates this. The central electronic system 746 then automatically engages the PIHL jack motors 736 to move up or down in order to displace the building 702 away from the flood area or move the building base back to grade level.

Optionally, the electronically controlled leveling jacks 712 are operable by remote control.

It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that manually operable lifting apparatuses suitable for application to embodiments of the present could be enabled using technology known in the art. For example, a user may engage the handle of lifting jacks such that the floor deck of the building can move vertically relative to the foundation.

An eight embodiment of the present invention is directed to a system for raising and lowering a building relative to its foundation. In particular, the exemplary embodiment involves lowering a building base from its normal position at grade level, thus causing the building base to be lower than grade level. This may be useful upon sensing a high wind event, such as for example a tornado.

The eighth exemplary embodiment involves a system for raising or lowering a building. The building comprises a peripheral building wall and overlies a foundation. The system also comprises a plurality of lifting apparatuses moveable between retracted and extended orientations. Each of the lifting apparatuses is partially within the peripheral building wall and engages the foundation. Operating the lifting apparatuses causes the building to move vertically relative to the foundation. The base of the building is normally at grade level when the lifting apparatuses are in the extended orientation. When operating the lifting apparatuses to retract the lifting apparatuses, the base of the building is lowered below the grade level. The building is thus at least partially enclosed within a protective surrounding of the foundation itself, in a nesting arrangement.

Turning to FIGS. 49a to 58c , the eight exemplary embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. FIGS. 49a, 49b, 52a, 53a, 54a, 55a and 57a show a building 802 resting on top of a foundation 804, the extended state for the lifting jacks 820, while FIGS. 50a, 50b, 52b, 53b, 54b, 55b and 57b show the building 802 partially lowered relative to the foundation 804, which is the mid-retracted state, and FIGS. 51a, 51b, 52c, 53c, 54c, 55c and 57c show the building 802 fully lowered relative to the foundation 804, which is the retracted state.

This system is designed to lower a building into a sub-grade, reinforced concrete foundation shelter in response to an extremely high wind event such as a tornado. The concrete foundation shelter comprises reinforced concrete pads 826 and a reinforced concrete wall 812 that functions as an earth/soil retaining wall. As shown in the figures, the building comprises a peripheral building wall and overlies an excavation surrounded by a reinforced concrete retaining wall.

The mechanism of this exemplary embodiment is similar to the seventh exemplary embodiment, however, the initial state of the building 802 is in the raised position. Jacks 820 are positioned at the corners of the structure (not shown) and connected to lifting beams 827, 828 that support the floor deck (and its frame 836) of the building 802. Angle braces are used to stabilize the connection of the jack 820 with beams 827, 828. Each jack 820 travels vertically along a support leg 822. The foot 824 of each leg 822 rests on a reinforced concrete foundation pad 826. A pair of threaded actuators 830 extend upwardly from each jack 820 into the wall of the building 802.

Similarly to embodiment 7, the jacks 820 are actuated by an electric motor drive system housed in the pair of modified steel beams 828 which are connected to the structural support lifting beams 827. The electric motor drive system comprises a drive housing 832 that holds a drive motor and drive shaft extending from it. The motor drive shaft engages a threaded actuator drive shaft which engages with a gear box. The gear box is situated adjacent to the top portion of the jack 820 as it engages with the threaded actuators 830. In particular, the drive shaft and the pair of threaded actuator drive shafts are connected by a pair of drive chains which ride on sprockets attached to each drive shaft such that the threaded actuators function in sync. A crown gear is mounted on the gearbox end of the threaded actuator drive shaft. A corresponding crown gear is mounted on the lower end of the threaded actuator and engages the gear on the actuator drive shaft. The upper actuator nut mount transmits the rotational energy of the threaded actuator to the move the jack and supported structure vertically relative to the support leg. This arrangement transfers the horizontal rotational energy of the drive motor to a vertical rotational energy that drives the threaded actuators.

When the jacks 820 are actuated, the jacks 820 travel vertically along the support leg 822, resulting in the support beams 827, 828 and building 802 moving vertically relative to the reinforced concrete foundation pads 826.

The actuation of the jack motors is synchronized by a central electronic system. A person skilled in the art would know of commercially available central electronic systems suitable for application to embodiments of the present invention. The system is installed such that the jacks 820 are located within framed wall pockets inside the external wall frame of the structure 802.

The foundation 804 may comprise a reinforced concrete wall 812 that lays on top of a reinforced concrete footing 834. The foundation wall/retaining wall 812 is configured to at least partially contain the building 802 when it is lowered below the grade level. Preferably, in the lowered position, the roof structure would be mechanically fastened to the top of the retaining wall 812. The foundation may also include a below grade entrance 814 that allows egress when the building is in the lowered position.

In operation, when the sensors sense a high wind event or cessation thereof, they send data to the central electronic system that indicates this. The central electronic system then automatically engages the jack motors to move up or down in order to displace the building 802 below or above the grade level in response to the wind level.

Optionally, the electronically controlled leveling jacks 820 are operable by remote control.

It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that manually operable lifting apparatuses suitable for application to embodiments of the present could be enabled using technology known in the art.

For example, a user may engage the handle of lifting jacks such that the floor deck of the building can move vertically relative to the foundation.

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims:

-   -   “comprise”, “comprising”, and the like are to be construed in an         inclusive sense, as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense;         that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”.     -   “connected”, “coupled”, or any variant thereof, means any         connection or coupling, either direct or indirect, between two         or more elements; the coupling or connection between the         elements can be physical, logical, or a combination thereof     -   “herein”, “above”, “below”, and words of similar import, when         used to describe this specification shall refer to this         specification as a whole and not to any particular portions of         this specification.     -   “or”, in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of         the following interpretations of the word: any of the items in         the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of         the items in the list.     -   the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” also include the meaning         of any appropriate plural forms.

Words that indicate directions such as “vertical”, “transverse”, “horizontal”, “upward”, “downward”, “forward”, “backward”, “inward”, “outward”, “vertical”, “transverse”, “left”, “right”, “front”, “back”, “top”, “bottom”, “below”, “above”, “under”, and the like, used in this description and any accompanying claims (where present) depend on the specific orientation of the apparatus described and illustrated. The subject matter described herein may assume various alternative orientations. Accordingly, these directional terms are not strictly defined and should not be interpreted narrowly.

Where a component (e.g. a circuit, module, assembly, device, etc.) is referred to herein, unless otherwise indicated, reference to that component (including a reference to a “means”) should be interpreted as including as equivalents of that component any component which performs the function of the described component (i.e., that is functionally equivalent), including components which are not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs the function in the illustrated exemplary embodiments of the invention.

Specific examples of methods and apparatus have been described herein for purposes of illustration. These are only examples. The technology provided herein can be applied to contexts other than the exemplary contexts described above. Many alterations, modifications, additions, omissions and permutations are possible within the practice of this invention. This invention includes variations on described embodiments that would be apparent to the skilled person, including variations obtained by: replacing features, elements and/or acts with equivalent features, elements and/or acts; mixing and matching of features, elements and/or acts from different embodiments; combining features, elements and/or acts from embodiments as described herein with features, elements and/or acts of other technology; and/or omitting combining features, elements and/or acts from described embodiments.

The foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. The scope of the claims should not be limited by the exemplary embodiments set forth in the foregoing, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the specification as a whole. 

1. A system for raising and lowering a building relative to its foundation, the foundation comprising a foundation wall, the system comprising: a plurality of lifting apparatuses each comprising an extensible member, each lifting apparatuses mounted on a surface of the foundation wall and the extensible member moveable between a retracted orientation and an extended orientation and configured to abut a portion of the building; such that when the extensible members are moved from the retracted orientation to the extended orientation, each of the extensible members exert an upward force on the building causing the building to be lifted vertically relative to the foundation.
 2. The system of claim 1 wherein the surface is an inner surface of the foundation wall.
 3. The system of claim 1 wherein the surface is an outer surface of the foundation wall.
 4. The system of claim 1 wherein the surface comprises inner and outer surfaces and each lifting apparatus comprises inner and outer lifting members, the inner lifting member mounted on the inner surface and the outer lifting member mounted on the outer surface, the inner and outer lifting members connected by a connection member passing through the foundation wall such that the inner and outer lifting members operate in tandem.
 5. The system of claim 1 further comprising at least one support beam positionable between the building and the extensible members.
 6. The system of claim 1 wherein the plurality of lifting apparatuses are electronically operable.
 7. The system of claim 1 wherein the plurality of lifting apparatuses are manually operable.
 8. The system of claim 1 wherein each of the plurality of lifting apparatuses are positioned at evenly spaced points around the foundation wall.
 9. The system of claim 1 wherein the extensible members are extensible to a plurality of heights relative to the foundation wall.
 10. A system for leveling a building, the building supported by a support structure, the building overlying a foundation, the system comprising: a plurality of lifting apparatuses extending upwardly from the foundation to the support structure, each of the lifting apparatuses contacting the support structure at one of a plurality of contact points; and each of the lifting apparatuses independently operable to extend from a retracted orientation to one of a plurality of extended orientations; such that when each of the lifting apparatuses are moved from the retracted orientation to one of the extended orientations, the lifting apparatuses exert an upward force on the support structure at the contact points causing the building to be lifted vertically relative to the foundation.
 11. The system of claim 10 wherein the support structure comprises at least two supported members, each of the supported members being supported by at least two of the lifting apparatuses.
 12. The system of claim 10 wherein the foundation comprises reinforced concrete pads.
 13. The system of claim 10 wherein the plurality of lifting apparatuses are electronically operable.
 14. The system of claim 10 wherein the plurality of lifting apparatuses are manually operable.
 15. The system of claim 13 wherein the plurality of lifting apparatuses are operable by remote control.
 16. The system of claim 13 wherein the plurality of lifting apparatuses are automatically operable by sensor means such that the building is automatically leveled.
 17. The system of claim 16 wherein the sensor means are located on the support structure.
 18. The system of claim 11 wherein each lifting apparatus comprises first and second lifting members, the first and second lifting members supporting a vertically moveable yoke member configured to receive and support the supported member, the first and second lifting members connected by a connection member such that the first and second lifting members operate in tandem.
 19. A system for raising and lowering a building, the building overlying a foundation and supported by a foundation grade beam, the system comprising: a plurality of lifting apparatuses mounted on a surface of the foundation grade beam, each lifting apparatus comprising a downwardly extensible member configured to contact the foundation; and the extensible members moveable between retracted and extended positions; such that when the extensible members move from the retracted position to the extended position, the plurality of lifting apparatuses exert an upward force on the foundation grade beam causing the building to be displaced away from the foundation.
 20. The system of claim 19 wherein the foundation comprises at least one reinforced concrete pad.
 21. The system of claim 19 wherein the foundation comprises at least one reinforced concrete footing.
 22. The system of claim 19 wherein the surface comprises inner and outer surfaces and each lifting apparatus comprises inner and outer lifting members, the inner lifting member mounted on the inner surface and the outer lifting member mounted on the outer surface, the inner and outer lifting members connected by a connection member such that the inner and outer lifting members operate in tandem.
 23. The system of claim 19 wherein the plurality of lifting apparatuses are electronically operable.
 24. The system of claim 19 wherein the plurality of lifting apparatuses are manually operable.
 25. The system of claim 19 wherein each of the plurality of lifting apparatuses are positioned at evenly spaced points around the foundation grade beam.
 26. The system of claim 19 wherein the extensible members are extensible to move the foundation grade beam to a plurality of heights relative to the foundation.
 27. A system for raising and lowering a building, the building overlying a foundation, the foundation comprising a foundation wall and a foundation floor, the system comprising: a plurality of lifting apparatuses each comprising a downwardly extensible member, each lifting apparatuses mounted on a surface of the foundation wall and the extensible member moveable between a retracted orientation and an extended orientation and configured to abut the foundation floor; such that when the extensible members are moved from the retracted orientation to the extended orientation, each of the extensible members exert an upward force on the foundation wall causing the building and the foundation wall to be lifted vertically relative to the foundation floor displacing the foundation wall from the foundation floor.
 28. The system of claim 27 wherein the foundation floor comprises at least one reinforced concrete pad.
 29. The system of claim 27 wherein the foundation comprises at least one reinforced concrete footing.
 30. The system of claim 27 wherein the surface comprises inner and outer surfaces and each lifting apparatus comprises inner and outer lifting members, the inner lifting member mounted on the inner surface and the outer lifting member mounted on the outer surface, the inner and outer lifting members connected by a connection member such that the inner and outer lifting members operate in tandem.
 31. The system of claim 27 wherein the plurality of lifting apparatuses are electronically operable.
 32. The system of claim 27 wherein the plurality of lifting apparatuses are manually operable.
 33. The system of claim 27 wherein each of the plurality of lifting apparatuses are positioned at evenly spaced points around the foundation wall.
 34. The system of claim 27 wherein the extensible members are extensible to move the foundation wall to a plurality of heights relative to the foundation floor.
 35. A system for raising or lowering a building, the building comprising a peripheral building wall and overlying a foundation, the system comprising: a plurality of lifting apparatuses moveable between retracted and extended orientations, each of the lifting apparatuses partially within the peripheral building wall and engaging the foundation; such that operating the lifting apparatuses causes the building to move vertically relative to the foundation.
 36. The system of claim 35 wherein a base of the building is normally at grade level with the lifting apparatuses in the retracted orientation, such that operating the lifting apparatuses to extend the lifting apparatuses causes the base of the building to be raised above the grade level.
 37. The system of claim 35 wherein a base of the building is normally at grade level with the lifting apparatuses in the extended orientation, such that operating the lifting apparatuses to retract the lifting apparatuses causes the base of the building to be lowered below the grade level.
 38. The system of claim 35 wherein the plurality of lifting apparatuses are positioned within corners of the peripheral building wall.
 39. The system of claim 35 wherein the foundation comprises at least one reinforced concrete pad.
 40. The system of claim 35 wherein the foundation comprises at least one reinforced concrete footing.
 41. The system of claim 37 wherein the foundation comprises a below grade entrance that allows egress when the building is lowered below the grade level.
 42. The system of claim 36 wherein the plurality of lifting apparatuses are provided with sensor means and automatically operable by the sensor means such that the base of the building is automatically raised above the grade level upon sensing a flood event.
 43. The system of claim 37 wherein the plurality of lifting apparatuses are provided with sensor means and automatically operable by the sensor means such that the base of the building is automatically lowered below the grade level upon sensing a high wind event.
 44. The system of claim 37 wherein the foundation comprises a foundation wall, such that when the base of the building is lowered below the grade level, the building is lowered to be at least partially contained within the foundation wall. 